Aren't you forgetting something?

Question

Is there subtle difference between "1" and "2"?1. Didn't you forget something?2. Aren't you forgetting something?

Fivejedjon · Accepted Answer

It will depend on the context. If the words are said by a parent reminding a child that they did not say 'please' or 'thank you' or something similar, then I don't feel any real difference.

Dimsumexpress · Answer

First of all, I believe this should be: Did you forget something? , rather than "didn't you forget something?"
Yes, there are differences. "Did" applies to the past context, while " aren't you ...." is present.

Let's say your kid left the house for school 5 minutes ago and the door bell rang. Your kid was short of breath, running into his room. You may ask him: " did you forget something ?".

If your wife is leaving the house in a hurry and you saw her purse on the kitchen counter, you may say to her: " aren't you forgetting something".

Fivejedjon · Answer

dimsumexpressFirst of all, I believe this should be: Did you forget something? , rather than "didn't you forget something?"

In the context I suggested, 'didn't' is probably more natural, in British English at least. It functions more as a reminder than an enquiry.

dimsumexpressYes, there are differences. "Did" applies to the past context, while " aren't you ...." is present.

Used of something that has happened just seconds ago, as in the context I suggested, either may apply - "Didn't you forget to say thank you (a few seconds ago)?" or "Aren't you forgetting to say thank you (now)?"

Aren't you forgetting something?

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